Felony Marijuana Arrest in the Town of Grand Island

A report of a woman being assaulted led to the discovery of a marijuana grow operation and the arrest of Grand Island resident Matthew J. Lazzaro (33) for Criminal Possession of Marijuana, 2nd degree and Unlawful Growing of Cannabis.

Deputies Jason Clark and Bradley Girdler responded to the disturbance and observed multiple marijuana plants growing. The Sheriff’s Narcotics Unit was called out to assist with their expertise in this area. After a search warrant was obtained from Grand Island Town Judge Mark Frentzel, the Narcotics Unit and the Patrol Deputies seized approximately 250 marijuana plants and a large quantity of already harvested marijuana. The scene was processed by Crime Scene Investigator Deputy Lee Richard and Mr. Lazzaro was taken to the Erie County Holding Center pending arraignment. The charge is a Class D felony because the quantity of marijuana seized was in excess of 16 ounces but less than 10 pounds.